Alaska Air Carriers Association: working to improve Alaska's aviation industry.

• Author: Barbour, Tracy
• Position: Associations

The Alaska Air Carriers Association (AACA) operates under a distinctive objective: "to foster and support a stable commercial aviation industry founded upon the principles of safety, professionalism and longevity."

AACA was established March 10, 1966, as the Alaska Air Taxi Operators to help operators in Southwest Alaska have an organized aviation "voice" in aviation regarding State legislation and workers' compensation insurance premiums for high-risk businesses. At the time of its inception, the group focused on several important pieces of State legislation, including the development of the Alaska Transportation Commission.

Over the years, AACA has experienced strong, steady growth. It has expanded not only in membership, but also in prestige, funding and the ability to command the attention and respect of the industry, governmental agencies and the public, according to Executive Director Joy Journeay. In 1974, AACA began an annual convention in addition to its annual meetings. "This venue continues to provide an opportunity for the industry to gather, speak to common problems, meet with government agencies, and set new goals," Journeay said.

The nonprofit AACA also has added training programs to enhance the safety of aviation operations and business management, as well as a trade show to facilitate further business opportunities. This past February, AACA held its 45th Annual Convention and Trade Show in Anchorage at the Hotel Captain Cook. The successful event featured educational sessions, training, networking, new products and opportunities for attendees to gain a broader perspective about the aviation industry.

Today, AACA is continuing to advocate on behalf of aviation companies with State and federal legislative bodies and regulatory government agencies. It also is developing additional training programs and support to serve its membership. For example, AACA offers an active health insurance package. Members can choose from multiple types of employee health benefit packages, including bridge insurance, which pays 100 percent of high deductibles and co-pays for other health care.

Journeay says AACA plans to increase its membership benefits as it continues to move forward. She said, "As we move into the future, AACA shall continue to seek further avenues of service and support to our members to insure the vigorous health and financial viability of Alaska's aviation industry."

MEMBERSHIP BASE

AACA's 160 members carry more than 98...